Bar owner defends ban on solo drinkers
A Greater Manchester cocktail bar has sparked controversy after banning solo drinkers, with its owner claiming they ‘mither’ other customers and pose safety risks late at night.
Carl Peters, owner of Alibi in Altrincham, shared the policy on Instagram under the caption ‘Door policy drama’, explaining that single patrons are no longer allowed after 9pm.
Peters said the move is designed to prevent incidents in a busy, late-night environment.
A Greater Manchester cocktail bar has sparked controversy after banning solo drinkers, with its owner claiming they ‘mither’ other customers and pose safety risks late at night. Pic: Getty
‘If someone is on their own, if something happens to them, it’s an absolute nightmare for us to deal with,’ he explained.
He also argued that solo customers tend to approach groups, which can disrupt the atmosphere.
‘They’re not just gonna sit there in a bar having a drink on their own in silence. That’s when things start to happen,’ he said.
Alibi, which opened in 2022 on Shaw’s Road, is known for late-night cocktails and karaoke events. Peters claimed the single-drinker ban has been in place from the start, and defended it after one customer labelled the rule ‘discriminatory.’
Carl Peters, owner of Alibi in Altrincham, shared the policy on Instagram under the caption ‘Door policy drama’, explaining that single patrons are no longer allowed after 9pm. Pic: Getty
He dismissed the complaint, saying: ‘Sorry mate, don’t bring your woke agenda here.’
The policy has drawn criticism in the press and online. The Independent warned that banning solo patrons could worsen the UK’s loneliness crisis, citing a 2024 poll that found a third of 18- to 24-year-olds often feel lonely.
But Peters remained firm, telling followers: ‘I won’t apologise for prioritising people’s welfare [and] safety,’ calling it the venue’s ‘number one priority.’
Peters highlighted the risks of lone drinkers, including accidents or medical emergencies, arguing that his approach is ‘standard procedure in nightlife.’
On Reddit, users debated the policy, with some defending solo patrons who enjoy a drink alone without causing disruption, while others noted that similar practices exist in other bars.
The bar’s door policy is displayed prominently, stating: ‘No single entry. After 9pm, Alibi does not permit single entry. If you are with guests already inside the venue, please contact them in advance of entry. This is for the safety of all guests.’
It also includes strict dress-code rules, banning sportswear, tracksuits, Stone Island-branded clothing, baseball caps, ripped jeans, or anything with ‘roadman vibes.’
